Investigating the effects of intermittent energy restriction on abdominal fat and gut health.

Effects of Intermittent Energy Restriction on Intra-Abdominal Fat and the Gut Microbiome: A Randomized Trial

NIH-funded research University of Hawaii at Manoa · NIH-10919164

This study is looking for people to help us understand if a special eating plan called intermittent energy restriction can help with weight loss and improve health, especially by reducing belly fat and supporting gut health, compared to a daily calorie-cutting plan.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Honolulu, United States)
Project IDNIH-10919164 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how intermittent energy restriction (IER) can lead to weight loss and improve health by focusing on reducing abdominal fat and enhancing gut microbiome functions. Participants will be involved in a six-month randomized trial comparing IER with daily energy restriction (DER) to determine which method is more effective in decreasing fat mass and improving cancer-related biomarkers. The study aims to provide rigorous evidence to support the health benefits of IER, particularly in relation to obesity-related cancers and racial/ethnic disparities in fat accumulation. By participating, individuals may contribute to important findings that could influence dietary recommendations for better health outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are looking to lose weight and improve their metabolic health.

Not a fit: Patients who are not overweight or do not have concerns related to abdominal obesity or cancer risk may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide patients with a more effective dietary approach to reduce abdominal fat and lower cancer risk.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for intermittent energy restriction, suggesting it may be a viable alternative to traditional daily energy restriction methods.

Where this research is happening

Honolulu, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.